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Clarkston Festival receives grant from Neighborhood Fund

The Clarkston Festival Committee has received a $9,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Atlanta’s Neighborhood Fund, paving the way for the city to host a community festival on April 26.

The city plans to use the festival to promote and celebrate cultural diversity, and as a way to combat bullying among youths.

“The first thought of a festival came through a community conversation with the youth,” said Kim Ault, a member of the committee. “The youth were from all over the community. They talked about the festival as a way to create a positive alternative to gang violence and fight bullying. They wanted to highlight their cultures and increase understanding. We approached the process slowly and have been committed to involving as many community members as possible.”

City officials reached out to assist the committee, which was formed in 2012, through the Greater Atlanta Neighborhood Fund, which provides grants and support to community groups to build relationships, develop leadership and change communities within the 23-county region.

The grant to support Clarkston’s festival includes $4,000 in community coaching for the festival committee—coaching committee member Angela Moore said she considers very beneficial.

“With their support, the committee will be able to identify new assets, strengthen the group’s leadership and dynamics and be prepared to execute an even greater festival in 2015,” Moore said.

Moore said the festival will offer plenty of activities for the community.

“The grant will help the committee to produce an effective and successful festival said Moore. “Festival plans include a variety of activities for all ages, live culturally diverse entertainment, storytelling, a children’s corner with pony rides, henna demonstrations, a dunking booth, food, arts and crafts, a soccer exhibition and so much more.”

The festival will be held at the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf. The event will kick off with a 5K in the morning.

“We are seeking even more residents to bring their ideas and gifts and work with us on the various committees, including fundraising, marketing, and activities. We invite residents to contact us,” Moore said.